Ramanand Sagar’s ‘Ramayana’ to ‘RRR’: 6 shows and films inspired by Ramayana

January 22 marks a significant day in the history of India. After months of preparation, the mega Ram Mandir ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony in Ayodhya will finally take place.

Ahead of the auspicious occasion, here’s a look at six films and shows that have been inspired by the Ramayana.

RAMANAND SAGAR’S RAMAYANA
To begin with, Ramanand Sagar’s ‘Ramayana’ is arguably one of the best interpretations of the Hindu epic. From an epic cast to visual effects that were way ahead of its time, the show had it all. ‘Ramayana’ has been shown in 53 countries and has been viewed by more than 650 million viewers across the world, making it the most-watched mythological show in the world. It was re-telecast during the lockdown that was caused due to the pandemic in 2020.

RAMAYANA: THE LEGEND OF PRINCE RAMA
‘Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama’ is hands down one of the best-animated adaptations of the Ramayana. The 1992 anime film was co-produced by Japanese and Indian animation studios, produced and directed by Yugo Sako. Interestingly, Arun Govil, who is known for playing the role of Rama in the Ramayan 1987 TV series, voiced Prince Rama in the version.

Ace filmmaker Mani Ratnam retold this epic story albeit from the perspective of Raavan. The film follows a bandit, Beera, who kidnaps the wife of a police officer only to fall in love with her later. Riveting performances, stunning cinematography, and the unconventional take make this film a must-watch.

HANUMAN
‘Hanuman’, which released in 2005, is an animated feature film directed by VG Samant. It dramatises the life of its titular character, Lord Hanuman, and depicts the events of the Ramayana. The film is credited for kick-starting the growth of India’s animation industry.

RRR
SS Rajamouli’s film also borrowed several elements from the epic tale. From Ram Charan’s portrayal resembling that of Lord Ram, Jr NTR’s with Hanuman and Alia Bhatt playing Sita, one cannot miss how the story has been influenced by Ramayana.

HUM SAATH SAATH HAIN
Sooraj Barjatya’s ‘Hum Saath Saath Hain’ won the hearts of many with its central theme of family bond and love. The film draws major inspiration from Ramayana. From the bond between stepbrothers to Lord Rama’s exile, it mirrors the exact plot of Ramayana and had several references from the epic saga in the film.